Author: When you enter in a tenancy, the owner will require you to pay a security bond before moving in. The security bond is usually the equivalent of four weeks rent and must be paid to the property manager or landlord who lodges it with the Bond Administrator, a specific government-managed trust account. There are…

Author: When it comes to renting, both you and your landlord share the burden of responsibility in ensuring the tenancy runs smoothly. Understanding the written lease agreement An official written lease agreement is the best way to ensure you both clearly understand your rights and responsibilities when entering into a tenancy. Agents who are members…

Author: Trying to find rental accommodation when you own a pet can be tough, particularly in a tight rental market, but it is possible. While it can often seem like you’re being forced to make a decision between your furry friend and a place to live, it is becoming increasingly common for owners to allow…

Author: One of the things that tenants look for in a quality rental home is the level of safety and security it provides. Some of the safety measures you might expect in a rental property are mandatory while others are not necessarily. It comes down to definitions and practicalities. Smoke alarms One of the mandatory…

Author: There are many things to consider and take care of when starting a tenancy. You are entering into a legal contract so it’s vital you know exactly what you’re signing as well as your rights and responsibilities during your tenancy. Costs A trap for some renters is they fail to adequately consider all upfront…

Author: Every year the Perth winter months bring about a few days of wild winds and heavy rain that can cause significant storm damage to properties, fencing and mature trees. This raises issues for people renting their home and buyers in the middle of the contract process when damage occurs. So where does the law…

Author: When things break or are damaged during a tenancy, it can be tricky to work out who is responsible for rectifying the problem. If you find yourself in a situation where you are renting and damage has occurred, figuring out who is responsible comes down to two factors; what kind of damage it is…

Author: With both once-off and ongoing payments part of the rental experience, it’s smart to familiarise yourself with the costs involved. While you won’t have costs like stamp duty and council rates to worry about, there are still expenses to budget for. Option Fee (if applicable) An Option Fee is sometimes required when applying for…